Socioeconomic Impacts of Forest Plantations in Niassa, Mozambique

Abstract

The aim of this research was to assess the socioeconomic impacts of forest plantations in the householders’ livelihood in the Niassa province communities, northern Mozambique. Were conducted semi-structured interviews with 423 households in communities around the forest companies, forest plantation managers and the govern local senior members of the govern. The data collected were analyzed using descriptive statistics, considering the period before and after implementation of forestry companies. The results showed improvements in the livelihood of the householders, especially those who are employed in forestry companies. The presence of forestry companies reduced dependence and accessibility of families in relation to forest resources due to increasing distances from the sources of production.

Keywords:
Forestry companies; plantations in Mozambique; rural communities